Brandywine Zoo, The Delaware Bayshore Travel Guide

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Discover diverse wildlife and conservation efforts at Wilmington's Brandywine Zoo, a family-friendly destination since 1905.

The Brandywine Zoo, nestled in Brandywine Park, Wilmington, Delaware, is a small yet impactful zoo dedicated to conservation and education. Established in 1905, the 4.7-acre zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world, including endangered species.

A brief summary to Brandywine Zoo

1001 N Park Dr, Wilmington, Delaware, 19802, US
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Monday 10 am-4 pm
Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 10 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Brandywine Zoo.

Check the zoo's website for seasonal hours, special events, and animal encounter schedules.
Visit during the summer for extended Wednesday evening hours and a chance to see more animals active.
Take advantage of the free parking available in the Brandywine River lot.
Consider becoming a member of the Delaware Zoological Society to support the zoo's conservation and education programs.

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Explore Brandywine Zoo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Brandywine Zoo, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From downtown Wilmington, the Brandywine Zoo is accessible by foot. Head north on Delaware Avenue, then turn right onto N Van Buren Street. Cross the Van Buren Street Bridge, and you'll see the zoo entrance on your left. Follow N Park Drive to the parking lot on the right. The walk is approximately 25 minutes.
Public Transport

DART First State bus routes 2, 11, and 35 serve the Brandywine Zoo. Check the DART website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. From the Wilmington Transit Center, transfer to the appropriate route heading towards the zoo. A one-way fare is $2.00.
Driving

From I-95, take Exit 7 (Delaware Avenue). Continue straight, then turn left onto Delaware Avenue and right onto N Van Buren Street. Cross the Van Buren Street Bridge, and the zoo entrance will be on your left. Turn left onto N Park Drive; the parking lot is on the right. Parking is free.

Discover more about Brandywine Zoo

The Brandywine Zoo, a charming 4.7-acre zoo in Wilmington, Delaware, has been connecting people with wildlife since 1905. Located within Brandywine Park on the banks of the Brandywine River, the zoo is home to a variety of animals from the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Madagascar. Exhibits are organized by geographic region, showcasing animals in naturalistic settings. Visitors can observe red pandas, Andean condors, lemurs, capybaras, and various bird and reptile species. The zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts, including the Delaware Kestrel Partnership, which monitors local American kestrel populations. They also support global initiatives like the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership.Throughout its history, the Brandywine Zoo has evolved from a small collection of animals to a modern zoo focused on education and conservation. It was converted into a children's zoo in the mid-20th century, featuring fairy tale exhibits. Today, it is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), ensuring high standards of animal care and welfare. The zoo offers various programs and events, including animal encounters, summer camps, and themed family programs.